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Coming up roses

The embroidery work of Karen Nicol is legendary and can be seen on catwalks in the collections of some of the worlds most innovative fashion designers, her client list runs from Chanel through to Clements Ribiero. It is fitting then that one of her more recent projects was in collaboration with a woman who is herself a renowned expert in her own field. Nicki Tibbles estabilished Wild at Heart in 1993 and her fresh approach to flowers quickly made her a household name – at least in those households that regularly have flowers delivered. Even those who have never heard of her will have felt her influence. Wild at Heart's philosophy is based on the recognition that flowers bring a restoring element of nature and wildness into our lives.

Nicki’s flower concepts are simple and likely to include the kind of flowers you grew up with peonies, sweet peas, cornflowers and roses, with splashes of lavender and thyme. Fashion folk including Versace, Tiffany, Hermes, Louis Vuitton and Prada flocked to have their interiors beautified by Nicki’s bouquets. In fact it was a mutual friend – Betty Jackson that introduced Karen to Nikki as “an amazing talent”.

As Nikki has recently launched a lifestyle boutique selling carefully chosen items related to flowers by colour, shape, scent or decoration her interest was piqued. “I met Karen at the Rebecca Hossack Gallery, where she was exhibiting these incredible embroidered artworks and lace pieces” explains Nikki, “initially I suggested having something similar. I went to her home to discuss it and we decided to take it further and produce a range of skirts for Wild at Heart. I gave Karen a massive bunch of flowers: lupins, hydranga, delphiniums, stock, roses, peonies, and sweet peas – the sort of flowers I like – for inspiration.” Karen produced organic calico skirts embellished with silks and appliqué, on one, abstract cabbage roses are loosely handstitched in shades of pink. Karen has also designed striking beaded jewellery which will be sold alongside beautiful table linen, napkins and – soon to arrive – bespoke cashmere garments by Betty Jackson.

Live Wild at Heart, 49a Ledbury Road, W11 T: 020 7221 6434, www.wildatheart.com s e l v e d g e . o r g